Computerized Auction System For Use With Multiple Purchasing Media

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods create and maintain an auction server operative to receive requests for displaying auction items. The bid values are displayed and received in units that are specific to a particular program in which the user is participating. Bid values can be displayed and received in differing units depending on the particular program. Thus, participants in different programs can bid on the same items using different media types or different currencies. The system automatically converts between the different media types in order to determine highest bidders and bid amounts.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This application is a Continuation application of Ser. No. 09/637,728filed on Aug. 11, 2000 which claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication Ser. No. 60/155,282, filed Sep. 21, 1999 under 35 U.S.C.119(e), both of which are incorporated herein in their entirety byreference.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE/PERMISSION

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialwhich is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and TrademarkOffice patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrightrights whatsoever. The following notice applies to the software and dataas described below and in the drawings hereto: Copyright© 1999, 2000,BI® is a tradename of Schoeneckers, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to computerized auction systems,and more particularly to a computerized auction system recognizingmultiple purchasing media.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Literally millions of people are flocking to hundreds of auction sitesto hunt for treasures and bargains. The worldwide web has over 170auction sites from general interest to very specifically focused sitesfeaturing items like coins, baskets or marine items. In a typicalauction website, items are put up for bidding over a defined period oftime. The person (or persons depending on the auction type) submittingthe highest bid can then purchase the item at the bid price. In previoussystems, the bidding data such as the current high bid, the reserveprice etc. have been expressed in terms of a single currency, typicallyUnited States dollars.

However, there are many other mediums of exchange. One example is theincentive program. Incentive programs are typically offered bysponsoring organizations to promote the sales of their products orservices, or to improve another measure of performance of participatingemployees and independent contractors of the sponsor. Incentive programsare also known as “promotions.” Participants can receive credits in theform of a reward media that are accumulated and can be exchanged formerchandise and/or services.

A disadvantage of auction websites is that the user cannot redeemincentive program reward media, such as frequent buyer points at thesesites. A further disadvantage is that the bid and sale amounts aredisplayed in a single currency to all users, regardless of the type ofmedia they may hold.

Therefore, there is a need in the art for a system that can provideauction web services that can use multiple media types. Furthermore, thesystem should be able to limit access to those who participate insponsoring organizations' programs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The above-mentioned shortcomings, disadvantages and problems areaddressed by the present invention, which will be understood by readingand studying the following specification.

The systems and methods illustrated create and maintain an auctionserver operative to receive requests for displaying the auction items.The bid values are displayed and received in units that are specific toa particular program in which the user is participating. Bid values canbe displayed and received in differing units depending on the particularprogram. Thus, participants in different programs can bid on the sameitems using different media types or different currencies. The systemautomatically converts between the different media types in order todetermine highest bidders and bid amounts.

The present invention describes systems, clients, servers, methods, andcomputer-readable media of varying scope. In addition to the aspects andadvantages of the present invention described in this summary, furtheraspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent byreference to the drawings and by reading the detailed description thatfollows.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the hardware and operating environment inwhich different embodiments of the invention can be practiced.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a system-level overview of an exemplaryembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a method performed by a computer according toan exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a method performed by a computer according toan exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate login screens according to an embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary registration screen according to anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary linked advertising screen according toan embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate exemplary auction server pages according toan embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary bid history page according to anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary winning bid page according to anembodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 11A-11E illustrate exemplary auction category pages according toan embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 12A-12D illustrate exemplary item bid pages according to anembodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 13A-13C illustrate exemplary bid notification items according toan embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of theinvention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form apart hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specificexemplary embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. Theseembodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilledin the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood thatother embodiments may be utilized and that logical, mechanical,electrical and other changes may be made without departing from thescope of the present invention. The following detailed description is,therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

Hardware and Operating Environment

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the hardware and operating environment 100in which different embodiments of the invention can be practiced. Thedescription of FIG. 1 provides an overview of conventional computerhardware and a suitable computing environment in conjunction with whichthe invention can be implemented. The invention is described in terms ofa computer executing computer-executable instructions. However, theinvention can be embodied entirely in computer hardware in which thecomputer-executable instructions are implemented in read-only memory.The invention can also be implemented in client/server computingenvironments where remote devices that are linked through acommunications network perform tasks. Program modules can be located inboth local and remote memory storage devices in a distributed computingenvironment.

Computer 110 is operatively coupled to display device 112, pointingdevice 115, and keyboard 116. Computer 110 includes a processor 118(e.g. an Intel Pentium processor), random-access memory 120 (RAM),read-only memory 122 (ROM), and one or more mass storage devices 124,and a system bus 126, that operatively couples various system componentsincluding the system memory to the processing unit 118. Mass storagedevices are more specifically types of nonvolatile storage media and caninclude a hard disk drive, a floppy disk drive, an optical disk drive,and a tape cartridge drive. The memory 120, 122, and mass storagedevices, 124, are types of computer-readable media. A user can entercommands and information into the personal computer 110 through inputdevices such as a pointing device 115 and a keyboard 116. Other inputdevices (not shown) can include a microphone, joystick, game pad,satellite dish, scanner, or the like. The processor 118 executescomputer programs stored on the computer-readable readable media. In oneembodiment of the invention, components of the system run on computersystems made by Sun Microsystems running the UNIX operating system.However, the invention is not limited to any particular type of computer110. Computer 110 can be a PC-compatible computer, a MacOS-compatiblecomputer or a UNIX-compatible computer. The construction and operationof such computers are well known within the art.

Furthermore, computer 110 can be communicatively connected to theInternet via a communication device 128. Internet 130 connectivity iswell known within the art. In one embodiment, the computer includes acommunication device that is a modem and corresponding communicationdrivers to connect to the Internet via what is known in the art as a“dial-up connection.” In another embodiment, the computer includes acommunication device that is an Ethernet or similar hardware (network)card connected to a local-area network (LAN) that itself is connected tothe Internet via what is know in the art as a “direct connection” (e.g.,T1 line, etc.).

Computer 110 also has at least one operating environment runningthereon, each desirably providing a graphical user interface including auser-controllable pointer. Such operating environments include operatingsystems such as versions of the UNIX operating system. In alternativeembodiments of the invention, the Microsoft Windows and Apple MacOSoperating systems can be used. The invention is not limited to anyparticular operating environment, however, and the construction and useof such operating environments are well known within the art. Computer110 desirably can have at least one web browser application programrunning within at least one operating environment, to permit users ofcomputer 110 to access intranet or Internet world-wide-web pages asaddressed by Universal Resource Locator (URL) addresses. Such browserapplication programs include Netscape Navigator and Microsoft InternetExplorer.

Display device 112 permits the display of information, includingcomputer, video and other information, for viewing by a user of thecomputer. The invention is not limited to any particular display device112. Such display devices include cathode ray tube (CRT) displays(monitors), as well as flat panel displays such as liquid crystaldisplays (LCD's). Display device is connected to the system bus 126. Inaddition to the monitor, computers typically include other peripheraloutput devices such as printers (not shown), speakers, pointing devicesand a keyboard. Speakers 113 and 114 enable the audio output of signals.Speakers 113 and 114 are also connected to the system bus 126. Pointingdevice 115 permits the control of the screen pointer provided by thegraphical user interface (GUI) of operating systems such as versions ofMicrosoft Windows. The invention is not limited to any particularpointing device 115. Such pointing devices include mouses, touch pads,trackballs, remote controls and point sticks. Finally, keyboard 116permits entry of textual information into computer 110, as known withinthe art, and the invention is not limited to any particular type ofkeyboard.

The computer 110 can operate in a networked environment using logicalconnections to one or more remote computers, such as remote computer150. These logical connections are achieved by a communication devicecoupled to or a part of the computer 110; the invention is not limitedto a particular type of communications device. The remote computer 150can be another computer 110, a server, a router, a network PC, a client,a peer device or other common network node. The logical connectionsdepicted in FIG. 1 include a local-area network (LAN) 151 and awide-area network (WAN) 152. Such networking environments arecommonplace in offices, enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets andthe Internet

When used in a LAN-networking environment, the computer 110 and remotecomputer 150 are connected to the local network 151 through a networkinterface or adapter 153, which is one type of communications device.When used in a conventional WAN-networking environment the computer 110and remote computer 150 communicate with WAN 152 through modems (notshown). The modem, which can be internal or external, is connected tothe system bus 126. In a networked environment, program modules depictedrelative to the personal computer 110, or portions thereof, can bestored in the remote memory storage device.

Software Environment

The embodiments of the invention described below operate in the contextof one or more auction programs. An auction program is part of anincentives reward program, and has parameters that are determined by asponsor of the auction program. A sponsor of a program is generally anentity that wishes to provide some kind of incentive to participants inthe program. For example, a car manufacturer can be a sponsor of anincentive program that provides incentive rewards to encourageparticipants to sell more cars. In this case, participants wouldcomprise persons involved in selling cars. It should be noted that theinvention is not limited to incentive programs in a sales environment.Other types of program environments include safety, quality, and variousother types of programs. Such programs are within the scope of theinvention, and the use of the term “incentive program” is meant toinclude these environments.

The parameters of an auction program in one embodiment of the inventioninclude a program start date, a program end date, a program limitamount, a program bid increment, a restricted access flag, a restrictedaccess time, a program ad link, and a program bank account number. Theprogram start and end dates define the dates that the program is active.That is, the dates that participants can bid on items in the auctions.The program limit amount defines an upper bound on the value of auctionitems displayed to participants. This allows the sponsor to restrictview of items to those within the range of the rewards that are likelyto be earned by the participants.

The restricted access flag determines whether or not access to theauction will be limited to certain hours of the day. If the flag is set,access will not be allowed during the time determined by the restrictedaccess start and end times.

The auction program bid increment defines a minimum bid increment foritems displayed to participants. The bid increment is the minimum amountover the current bid that must be submitted by a participant wishing toplace a new bid on an item.

The program ad link defines a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) providing alink to a web page having advertisement or information content. Forexample, the web page may provide details on special deals availablefrom the sponsor about which sales personnel can inform potentialcustomers. In some embodiments, the ad link is created to thespecifications of the client. The design, message, and use of thisfeature is determined among the client and the auction service provider.

The program bank account number is an identifier for an account thatelectronically stores reward media earned by a participant. Programparticipants are given a bank account number when they join a program inwhich reward media are electronically distributed. As reward media areearned or used, the bank account balance is adjusted to reflect thechange. In some embodiments of the invention, the account number iscollected as part of the registration information.

In some programs, paper certificates are used to represent reward mediainstead of electronic storage. In alternative embodiments of theinvention, the participant enters the serial numbers of the certificatesthey are using when they bid.

Each sponsor's program has a program media associated with it. A programmedia comprises the reward units that are issued to participants uponmeeting the program's requirements. One example of a reward media isAwardperQs® from Schoeneckers, Inc. A farther example of a reward mediais a frequent flyer mile. In addition, program media can havedenominations. For example, the media may have denominations listed indifferent dollar amounts, with one denomination of the media being worth$25.00 while another is worth $0.10. Each auction program uses aparticular program media and denomination, with some auction programsusing the same media and/or denomination as others.

FIG. 2 illustrates the major software components of a system environmentcomprising various embodiments of the invention. Environment 200includes a client web browser 202, an auction server 204, and anincentive program system 206.

Web browser 202 can be any of a number of web browser applications knownin the art that run on computers such as the computer described above inreference to FIG. 1. Examples of such browsers include the NetscapeNavigator browser from Netscape Communications Corporation and theInternet Explorer browser available from Microsoft Corporation. In someembodiments of the invention, the client web browser 202 must be at aparticular version number or newer in order for the web pages generatedby the system to be displayed properly.

Auction server 204 is a web server system that provides web pages to,and receives input from the client web browser 202. The auction servercan run on a computer such as the computer described above in referenceto FIG. 1. In one embodiment of the invention, referred to as the Q-bidsystem, the auction server maintains an auction database 210 of itemsavailable for bidding, along with start and end times of the auction.Auction server 204 implements the methods detailed in FIGS. 3 and 4, andprovides web pages illustrated in FIGS. 5-12 to web browser applications202.

Database 210 provides persistent data storage for data used by auctionserver 204. In one embodiment of the invention, the database system isan Oracle database system. However, the invention is not limited to anyparticular database system and in alternative embodiments of theinvention the database system can be Informix, Sybase, Microsoft SQLServer, etc.

A number of processes support the operation of auction server 204. Theprocesses can be implemented in any manner known in the art. In oneembodiment of the invention, a start auction process, a close auctionprocess, and an update auction process all operate as a component ofauction server 204. The start auction process constantly monitors anauction table of database 210 and flags all auctions whose start date isgreater than or equal to the current system date. The start auctionprocess will also flag an auction as an ‘Open’ auction and ‘Active’auctions. In one embodiment of the invention, the process comprises oneor more stored procedures in database 210. In an alternative embodiment,the process is a Java servlet that invokes SQL commands to manipulateauction tables in database 210. The process can be scheduled to runperiodically, and in one embodiment of the invention, the process runsat approximately two to three minute intervals. However, the inventionis not limited to any particular interval time.

The close auction process monitors the auction table in database 210 andflags all auctions whose end date is greater than or equal to thecurrent system date. These auctions are flagged as ‘Closed’. Like thestart auction process, the close auction process can be implemented invarious ways known in the art, such as stored procedures in database210, or as a Java servlet that invokes SQL commands. In one embodimentof the invention, the close auction process runs every two to threeminutes, however the invention is not limited to any particular timeinterval. It should be noted that the close auction process onlyprocesses active auctions and skips suspended auctions.

The update auction process runs through an auction bid list maintainedwithin database 210 and marks winners of auctions. The update processwill also flag the winning bid entries in the auction list and markauctions as ‘Resolved’ once the winners are known.

Auction server 204 includes back end services 208. In one embodiment ofthe invention, the back end services 208 perform various auction-relatedfunctions. These functions include participant profile maintenance,rules maintenance, auction and auction items maintenance, program codemaintenance, media denomination maintenance, media type maintenance,product catalog maintenance, product category maintenance and viewingbids.

In one embodiment of the invention, the auction maintenance performed byback end services 208 includes functions such as entering new auctions,setting a start date and an end date, minimum bid information, etc.Another auction maintenance function of the component 208 is flaggingauctions active or inactive. This flagging is typically only done inexceptional cases. An auction manager has the ability to temporarilyshut down or suspend an auction. In one embodiment of the invention,back end services 208 also performs program code maintenance functions.These functions include the addition, deletion, viewing or maintenanceof program codes, which can be made available to various customers.Database 210 includes a field that provides a means for an auctionprogram to be set up with a restriction on participation during varioushours of the day. If this flag is set then participants in the programcan no longer take part in a bid during these restricted hours. The timewill be read from the machine the participant logged into the site from.Database 210 also includes a field that stores a threshold value indollars. Any auction item above this upper limit will not be displayedto program participants. This check can be performed for all of thevarious auction views.

Denomination maintenance functions are also performed by back endservices 208. The functions include the addition of denominations validfor the various media types supported by the system. In one embodimentof the invention, the media types include incentive reward points,frequent user or frequent buyer points. In addition, the media types caninclude currency from foreign countries. In one embodiment of theinvention, the denominations held in the table are for $0.10, $0.25,$1.00, $2.5 and $25 denominations. However, the invention is not limitedto any particular denomination combination.

Product catalog maintenance functions, performed by back end services208, include adding, deleting or maintaining data regarding productsthat can be placed on an auction. This module provides inventorymaintenance functionality, and depending on auction strategies, theauction manager can place products on auction using this function.

Back end services 208 also performs product category maintenancefunctions in one embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, thereare seven categories, however the invention is not limited to anyparticular number of categories. The categories are:

Antiques and Collectibles

Fun and Games

Home

Sports Memorabilia

Personal Accessories

Travel

Miscellaneous

Back end services 208 support a bid maintenance module in one embodimentof the invention. This module provides a mechanism for viewing auctiondata prior to the close date. In one embodiment of the invention, theresolution function of back end services 208 performs fund verificationand winner notification. This function is performed for each auctionafter resolution of bids. In one embodiment of the inventions, thewinner notification process of component 208 sends out e-mails to allthose participants who have been deemed winners. In addition, the systemwill prepare notification to participants that may have been highbidders, but could not be awarded the item as a result of insufficientfunds being available.

Finally, back end services 208 generates reports 214 in one embodimentof the invention. Included in these reports is an Auction ResolutionReport. When an auction closes, this report will include the auctionnumber (id), item, quantity, type of auction, bids, bidder information(such as shipping details, program in which the recipient is a member)and value of bidder's points. This report is useful should manualresolution of the auction be required. In addition to the AuctionResolution Report, an activity report detailing how many hits to thesite can be produced.

The format of the reporting can vary in different embodiments of theinvention. For example, reports can display query results or they can behard copy reports, with the ability of being able to print them ondemand. An example of specific type of query is the bid history report,which lists the exact time a user submits a bid, the auction ID, theuser name, and the quantity of the bid.

In one embodiment of the invention, auction repository 212 supports theback end services functions detailed above. In this embodiment, theauction repository 212 provides persistent storage for intermediatedata. The intermediate data comprises auctions that are to be mergedinto the data that currently exists in database 210. Database vendorstypically provide a mechanism for importing data in various formats,this import mechanism can be used to merge the data from auctionrepository 212 into database 210. In one embodiment of the invention,the auction repository 212 is an Access database. However, the inventionis not limited to such databases. For example, in an alternativeembodiment of the invention, the auction repository 212 comprises anExcel spreadsheet containing auction data. In a further alternativeembodiment, the auction repository 212 comprises a file, such as a commaseparated value (CSV) file. In a still further embodiment, therepository can be an Oracle database.

Incentive reward system 206 is a system that implements the rules of anincentive reward system, and that also tracks the number of rewardpoints awarded to a participant. In one embodiment of the invention, theincentive reward system is the AwardperQs reward system available fromSchoeneckers, Inc. The auction server 204 communicates with incentiveprogram system 206 at predetermined times to determine if the successfulbidder has enough points to acquire an item available on the auctionsite.

Fulfillment service 216 provides auction fulfillment services for thesystem. In one embodiment of the invention, data files are communicatedto the fulfillment service, detailing the items that need to be providedto the winning bidders, and the shipping details. The data files can beprovided in a required format to enable backend systems to completeaccounting, shipping and delivery options. In an alternative embodimentof the invention, the fulfillment process will be built for manualmethods.

An example of the operation of the system described above will now beprovided. In the example below, a program sponsor, also referred to as aclient, elects to allow their program participants access to the auctionserver. A Letter of Agreement is generated by the auction serviceprovider. The form is signed by the client and returned to auctionprovider. The auction program is then set up in the database 210 ofauction server 204.

The appropriate program code, based on the reward media used in thesponsor's program, can be given to an account manager for distributionto the program participants. Program codes can be created for eachclient program. In an alternative embodiment, each program has aseparate pass code.

Once a program participant has received a Program Code, they can enterthe auction and interact with auction server 204 via client web browser202. In one embodiment, upon entering the web site provided by auctionserver 204, the participant is given three choices. If they are a firsttime user, they click on the “first time user” button. If they arealready registered, they enter their user name established when theypreviously registered using their Program Code. As a third option, theuser can receive a temporary password if the original password has beenforgotten.

In one embodiment of the invention, when a participant selects theregister button, they are taken to the registration page. They arerequired to provide their name, address, telephone number, user name,password, and e-mail address in order to continue. In an alternativeembodiment of the invention, participants can use the postal system tosend and receive mail regarding their participation in the auction site.The alternative embodiment provides for registration and participationby those who have access to a web browser, but do not have ane-mail-address. In yet another alternative embodiment (not shown),participants can send and receive communications through a web page.

From the registration page (or the front page if already registered) theparticipant proceeds to the auction server web page. The auction serverweb page is where all the items for bid are listed along with the timeremaining in the auctions, the current high bid, quantity, and the typeof auction. In one embodiment of the invention, the participant canclick on a link naming the item being auctioned to go to a bid screenfor the item. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, there is abutton next to each item listed that allows the user to “go to” the itembeing auctioned.

At the item bid screen, descriptive information about the item as wellas an image of the item is displayed. This is where a bid can be placed.The type of auction, starting bid, bid increment and current bid aredisplayed. An empty box is provided for the user to place their bid. Anempty box for the participant's certificate number(s) is also provided,if the user is a participant in a certificate-based program. Once thebid certificate information is completed, the bidder clicks the “submitmy bid” button.

Some embodiments of the invention provide an item bid history tab. Thisfeature gives the user information on the history of the other bidders'activities. The information in this tab includes the other bidders' usernames, desired quantity of each bid, and the bid amount of each bid. Themenu ranks the bid amounts according to the current high bidder anddescending bids within the auction.

When a bid is submitted, the next screen the participant sees is theconfirmation screen. The amount of the bid, the account/certificatenumbers and mailing address are displayed. Instructions can be given tothe bidder to make any necessary corrections at this point. Text is alsoincluded about the binding nature of the bid. In one embodiment of theinvention, when the user is satisfied with the information they areproviding, they have two options—1) “submit my bid” or 2) “cancel”.After one of these buttons is selected, a message confirming the bid hasbeen received is displayed. Bids on other items can be placed at thistime. In one embodiment of the invention, the user can change or deletea bid after it is submitted to the auction server. After the systemconfirms the user's bid, all bids are biding to the user.

If the participant has placed a winning bid they are notified by e-mail.Before the final e-mail can be sent, the participant's earnings balancemust be verified to ensure they have enough earnings to cover their bid.In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the auction engine willbe connected to the provider's database or incentive program system 206so that confirmation of balances can occur automatically.

Bid amounts are displayed and received based on media types used by theparticipant. The media type describes the reward media used to purchaseauction items. In one embodiment of the invention, there are fivestandard media types are available—(1) AwardperQs Certificates, (2)AwardperQs Gold, (3) Mileage Money (4) AwardbanQ, and (5) Awardcard.Others can be created as needed for different values.

One aspect provided by the various embodiments of the invention is theability to accommodate users in various programs who may have differentvalues of AwardperQs, or other types of reward media. All users inparticipating programs can bid against each other on the same pool ofmerchandise; regardless of the value of their reward media. Eachparticipant will see on the various screens (“auction server”, “place abid” and “winning bid”), item and bid values appropriate to theirprogram. The auction server 204 uses the methods described below toautomatically adjust the input and output values in a manner appropriateto the program.

For example, assume that five participants A-E are viewing an item, andthat the starting bid on the item is set in the auction database at $25.Further assume that each participant is in a distinct program, and thateach program has a different denomination value, where A's denominationvalue is 25, B's 2.5, C's is 1, D's is 0.25, and E's is 0.10. In thisexample, Participant A's screen shows the starting bid as 1, participantB's screen shows 10, C shows 25 D shows 100, and E shows 250. In thisexample, the values are not dollars, but AwardperQs or some other formof points, credits or reward media. However, as noted above, theinvention is not limited to reward media and in alternative embodimentsof the invention, the values displayed and maintained by the system arevalues in the currency for a particular country for a programparticipant.

Next, assume that participant A, raises the bid to 2 (in their rewardmedia and denomination). The current high bid displayed to the otherparticipant's changes as appropriate for their program, as illustratedin Table 1 below. TABLE 1 A B C D E Original value 1 10 25 100 250 Newcurrent bid 2 20 50 200 500

The bid increment is dynamic depending on the value of the user's rewardmedia. To continue with the example above, the bid increments would beas follows:

-   -   A=1    -   B=10    -   C=25    -   D=100    -   E=250

The winning bid screen is also dynamic, showing the winning bid valueaccording to the user's reward media. For example, assume participant Draises the bid by two increments, i.e. by 200 in D's reward media anddenomination. Participant D above wins the auction at 400. Othervisitors to the winning bid screen would see:

-   -   A=4    -   B=40    -   C=100    -   D=400    -   E=1,000

The auction server 204 does all the calculations on a real-time basis sothat all users see current and appropriate numbers at all times.

The official rules page will include information on the auction rules,privacy, eligibility, bidding, payment, sales taxes, shipping, returns,reserved rights, trademark information, system integrity, warrantyinformation (including the fact that no warranty exists), limitations onliability, indemnity, general compliance with laws, no agency, notices,arbitration, governance, etc.

The winning bids page will display the item name, when the auctionended, user name, the amount of the winning bid and the items won. Inaddition, a history page of winning bids can be maintained for apredetermined amount of time. The invention is not limited to anyparticular time period, and it can be one week, one month, one year, orother suitable time period.

There are various types of auctions with their own set of rules. Theauction server 204 can use more than one auction type depending on thenumber of items available. When there is only one of a particular item,a straightforward English auction can take place. If there are multiplequantities of an item, a Dutch auction, or a variation known as theYankee auction, can be used. The type of auction is displayed on the“auction details” screen and the rules for the various types of auctionscan be found on the “official rules” screen. In an alternativeembodiment of the invention, there is a link from the type of auction onthe “auction details” screen to the appropriate definition on the“official rules” screen.

An alternative embodiment of the invention provides for the inclusion ofa reserve price in every auction. The reserve price is a secret pricethat is not known by any of the users on the auction site. Thepredetermined reserve price must be obtained before the close of theauction to have any successful bidders. If the auction closes and the nobidder satisfies or bid beyond the reserve price, the auction closeswith no winners. Any bidding beyond the reserve price is handledaccording to the same rules as an auction without a reserve price.

At the conclusion of an auction, the auction server 204 automaticallyproduces a file of all bidders and their information. This informationcan include user name, address, phone, e-mail, item bid, type ofauction, minimum bid, amount bid, account/certificate number(s) andshipping address (if different from registration address).

On a regular basis the orders are processed and shipped to the winners.In one embodiment of the invention, the processing is automated betweenthe auction engine and an order management system. However, winning bidfulfillment can also be a manual process.

A further aspect of the system is that the auction server can causemessages to be displayed to the user when the user logs into the auctionsystem. These messages can include messages specific to a particularprogram the user is participating in, or the messages can be of ageneral advertising nature. For example, if a user is a participant in aprogram that provides reward points for each sale of computer system,the message can be directed to special pricing programs available fromthe sponsor that the user can provide to their customers in order togenerate more sales for the sponsor, and therefore, more reward pointsfor the user.

Methods of an Exemplary Embodiment of the Invention

In the previous section, a system level overview of the operation of anexemplary embodiment of the invention was described. In this section,the particular methods of the invention performed by an operatingenvironment executing an exemplary embodiment are described bypreference to a series of flowcharts shown in FIGS. 3-4. The methods tobe performed by the operating environment constitute computer programsmade up of computer-executable instructions. Describing the methods byreference to a flowchart enables one skilled in the art to develop suchprograms including such instructions to carry out the methods onsuitable computers (the processor of the computer executing theinstructions from computer-readable media). The methods illustrated inFIGS. 3-4 are inclusive of the acts required to be taken by an operatingenvironment executing an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

In FIG. 3, a method for displaying bid data is shown. The method beginswhen an application, such as client web browser 202 requests an auctionweb page from a program executing the method, such as auction server204. Auction server 204 reads the current bid data for an item (block302). The bid data can consist of the current high bid, the bidincrement, the reserve amount, and the bid history. The invention is notlimited to any particular combination of bid data.

The auction server 204 also identifies which program that a participantrequesting the data is participating in. The program then determines thebid media for the program (block 304). The bid media is a pricing systemassociated to the type of program being offered. In one embodiment ofthe invention, the bid media is an incentive reward media, such aspoints in an incentive award system, a frequent flyer mile, or afrequent buyer award. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, thebid media is a currency for a country.

It should be noted that the tasks performed at block 302 and block 304need not be performed in the order described, and block 304 could beperformed before block 302.

Next, at block 306, the program converts the bid data retrieved at block302 into the bid media determined by block 304. This conversiontypically involves multiplying the bid data by a scaling factordetermined by a denomination value for the media. Examples of suchconversions can include converting a dollar amount to a reward pointamount, converting a reward point amount in one program to a rewardpoint amount in another program, or converting between denominationalamounts within the same program. Finally, each of the bid data amountsconverted is displayed to the participant (block 308).

A method of updating a bid amount is illustrated in FIG. 4. The methodbegins when a program executing the method, such as auction server 204receives a new bid from a participant (block 402).

The server then determines which incentive program the participantsubmitting the bid belongs to and reads program data for the program(block 404).

This program data includes the media type and denomination for theprogram. The server then adjusts the bid data by converting the bidreceived at block 402 to the unit maintained for the item in the auctionbid data (block 406). The converted amount is used to update the auctiondatabase (block 408).

It should be noted that the program data and the bid amounts used in themethods illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 have been described in terms ofincentive reward amounts. In an alternative embodiment of the invention,the program data can be substituted with a local currency amount, thatis, the currency that is used in the participant's home country.Likewise, the bid data in the bid database can be stored as an amount ina currency for a different country. In this case, the conversionperformed is that of a currency conversion to and from the localcurrency and the database currency.

An Exemplary Embodiment of the Invention

FIGS. 5-13 illustrate inventive aspects of one embodiment of acomputerized incentive reward system 200, having an auction component.FIGS. 5-13 illustrate various screen displays as a participant navigatesthrough various components of the system. As will be appreciated bythose of skill in the art, the invention is not limited to anyparticular order of navigation, and variations from the order presentedin detail below are within the scope of the invention.

FIG. 5A illustrates a login screen 502 according to an embodiment of theinvention. In one embodiment of the invention, login screen 502 includesa user name field 504 and password field 505. A participant selects auser name and password when they register with the system. In addition,login screen 502 includes a first time user button 506.

FIG. 5B illustrates a Program Code screen 510 according to an embodimentof the invention. Screen 510 is displayed in response to pressing firsttime user button 506. In this embodiment, a valid Program Code must beentered in Program Code fold 512 in order to register with the system.The system validates the Program Code by checking to make sure the coderepresents a program that is currently in operation, that is, thecurrent date is between the start and end dates for the program.

An exemplary registration screen 602 is shown in FIG. 6. Exemplaryscreen 602 includes a number of fields 604 used to identify theparticipant, including the participant's name, address, telephonenumber, e-mail address, and desired user name and password. As those ofskill in the art will appreciate, other information about a participantcan be requested, the invention is not limited to any particularcombination of participant details. In one embodiment of the invention,the system validates the participant's address, and will not allow P.O.boxes to be specified as an address. In some embodiments of theinvention, incentive programs that provide for the electronic storage ofreward media are represented by program code 512. In this case, accountnumber field 606 is presented on screen 602 to allow the user to enterthe account number identifier. If the program represented by programcode 512 does not provide for the electronic storage of reward media,some embodiments of the invention do not display field 606.

Returning to FIG. 5, after obtaining a user name and password, theparticipant must enter these items in field 504, whenever theparticipant wishes to access the system. In one embodiment of theinvention, the user name and password are valid only for a particularprogram, and the participant must obtain a new user name and passwordfor each program the participant wishes to participate in. In addition,in some embodiments the participant must obtain a temporary password ifthe participant forgets the password. Upon entry of a valid user nameand password, the system checks the date that the participant lastlogged in to the system. If the rules for the program have changed, awindow (not shown) is displayed showing the new rules. The participantmust then accept the new rules or decline participation in the program.

The system also monitors the entry of invalid passwords. In oneembodiment of the invention, if a participant enters an invalid passwordthree times in a row, the system will not allow the participant to enterthe user name to login for a period of fifteen minutes. As those ofskill in the art will appreciate, other time periods could besubstituted.

Upon entry of a valid user name and password, in one embodiment of theinvention the system checks to see if the auction program has an“adlink” field populated, a new browser window is opened and a linkedadvertising window is displayed. FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplaryadvertising window 702. In the exemplary window, information about theprogram can be displayed to the participant. For example, assume theincentive program is meant to provide incentive to sell computersystems. The advertising window 702 can display information aboutreduced prices on particular computer systems that the participant canpass on to their customers in order to increase sales, and therebyaccumulate incentive reward points that can be used in the auction.

Upon entry of a valid user name and password, and display of a linkedadvertising window, if any, the auction server main page is displayed.FIG. 8A illustrates an exemplary auction server main page 801 accordingto an embodiment of the invention. As shown, auctionator main page 802includes a navigation menu 803, a current auctions link 806, a what'snew link 808, a bid history link 810, a winning bids link 812, andcategory selection. links 802. In one embodiment of the invention,navigation menu 804 includes the following menu entries:

-   -   Search Search the auction web site for auctions that match input        parameters supplied by the participant.    -   Demo Display a demonstration of the auction program's web site.    -   Rules Display the rules associated with the auction program the        participant is currently logged into.    -   Feedback Provide feedback and commentary to the operators of the        auction system.    -   Edit Profile Edit registration details to provide updated        address, telephone, e-mail address, or other profile        information, with the exception of the user name, which once        established; cannot be changed.    -   Logoff Flush details about the program the participant was        logged into prevent other users from accessing the information.        Display linked advertising window if “adlink” filed of auction        program data structure is populated.

The links on auction server page 801 operate as follows. The currentauctions link 806 causes the system to display a running list of openauction items 804 in chronological order based on the bid-closing timesof the items. Each auction item 804 in the list includes the auctionname 814, time remaining 816, current high bid 818, quantity available820, and auction type 822.

The auction name 814 identifies an item being auctioned, and is a textdescription of an item up for bidding. The description will typicallygive the name of the item, perhaps accompanied by a stock number.

The time remaining 816 indicates time that the auction will close. Thisis the point in time when no more bids will be accepted. At this point,the highest bidder, or bidders in the case of multiple available items,is determined and the item is “sold”.

Current bid 818 is the current top bid for the item. The current bid 818is expressed in the media type and denomination for the program that theparticipant is currently participating in, as determined from the username and password the participant used during the login process.Participants of other programs may also be viewing the auction itemsdisplayed on auction page 801. The server will display current bidamounts in the denomination and units appropriate to their programs.Thus, a participant of one incentive program may see a different currentbid amount than a participant in another program. However, the bidamounts displayed represent the same base amount for the item stored inthe auction database. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, themedia type and denomination are expressed in terms of a local currencyfor the participant.

Quantity 820 represents the quantity of the item that is available forauction. If a quantity equal to one is displayed, the participantsubmitting the highest bid at the time the auction closes will-be ableto purchase the item. If the quantity is greater than one, the item willbe “sold” to the highest bidders until all items-have been sold.

Auction type 822 indicates the type of auction and the rules that willbe applied to the auction. Examples include English, Yankee, Dutch etc.Such auction types are well known in the art.

Auction page 801 also includes means to navigate through multiple pageswhen there are more items than will fit on one page. Those of skill inthe art will appreciate that there are multiple mechanisms available toprovide for such navigation, including “forward” and “back” buttons,scroll bars, and the like.

It will be appreciated by those of skill in the art that other meansbesides a table of items 804 could be chosen to present the informationdescribed, and that such means are within the scope of the invention.

Invoking the what's new link 808 causes the system to display a runninglist of open auction items in chronological order based on most-recentlyadded items. An exemplary new item screen 830 is illustrated in FIG. 8B.

Invoking the bid history link 810 causes the system to display a list ofall of the auction items that a participant has bid on since theparticipant registered with the system. An exemplary bid history screen902 is illustrated in FIG. 9. The list includes both those items wherethe participant submitted the winning bid, and those where theparticipant did not submit the winning bid. In one embodiment of theinvention, each bid item 904 in the list includes the auction item 814,auction status 906, winner indication 908, bid amount 910, and timeremaining 816. The auction status 906 indicates the current status ofthe auction, i.e. whether the auction is open and accepting bids,whether the auction is closed and no longer accepting bids, and whetherthe auction is resolved and the winning bidders have been finallydetermined. Winner indication 908 indicates whether or not theparticipant is the winner of the auction, bid amount 910 indicates thecurrent bid by the participant.

Invoking the winning bids link 812 causes the system to display thewinning bids for items having a “resolved” status within the last thirtydays. An exemplary winning bids screen 1002 according to an embodimentof the invention is shown in FIG. 10. The screen includes a list ofwinning bid items 1004. In one embodiment of the invention, the tabledisplayed contains a row for each item that was closed within apredetermined period of time, which in one embodiment is thirty days.However, the invention is not limited to any particular number of days.In one embodiment of the invention, each winning bid item 1004 includesthe auction name 814, a winning user name 1006, a winning bid quantity1008, and a winning bid amount 818. The winning user name 1006 is theuser name of the participant submitting the winning bid. The winning bidquantity 1008 indicates the quantity of the item bid on by the winningbidder. The winning bid amount 818 is displayed in terms of the mediaand denomination of the program that the participant that requested thepage is currently participating in. Note that this program can bedifferent from the program of the participant that submitted the winningbid. The-winning bid amount is read from the database and converted perthe method described in the previous section.

Invoking the select category link causes the system to sort auctionitems by category. In one embodiment of the invention, the categoriesare:

Antiques and Collectibles

Fun and Games

Home

Sports Memorabilia

Personal Accessories

Travel

Miscellaneous

FIGS. 11A-11E provide details of exemplary screens that are presentedupon selection of a category link 802. FIG. 11A provides an exemplaryantiques and collectibles screen 1102 according to an embodiment of theinvention. The screen includes a list of auction items 1104. For eachitem 1104, the auction name 814, item picture 1106, time remaining 816,current high bid 818, bid quantity 820 and auction type 822 aredisplayed. The auction picture 1106 represents a graphical view of theauction item. FIG. 11B illustrates an exemplary home auction itemsscreen 1140, FIG. 11C illustrates an exemplary sports memorabilia screen1150, FIG. 11D illustrates an exemplary travel screen 1160, and FIG. 11Eillustrates an exemplary miscellaneous screen 1170. Each of the screensillustrated in FIGS. 11B-E presents information similar to thatillustrated in FIG. 11A.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention (not shown), other linksare included on the auction server main page 802. For example, a “ComingSoon” or “Forthcoming” Auctions links causes the system to display alist of all the auctions that have a status of “Forthcoming”. Thisallows the participant to see into the future any planned auctions. Asecond example is the Feature Auctions link. These are auctions thathave been flagged as ‘special’. These maybe auctions being promotedbeing of a season, such as ‘The Christmas Special’, or any other eventrelated sale. A third example is a “Today's Feature” link, which wheninvoked, causes the system to display the special auction item of theday.

FIGS. 12A-12D illustrate item bid screens according to variousembodiments of the invention. FIG. 12A illustrates an exemplary auctionitem page 1202 according to an embodiment of the invention. In thisembodiment, auction item page 1202 displays further details regarding asingle item selected from the items displayed on an auction page, suchas those items displayed in FIGS. 8-11. Auction item page 1202 includesdescription 1204, end date field 1206, bid start amount 1210, bidincrement field 1216, current high bid 1214, quantity available 1208,desired quantity 1209, bid amount field 1212 and certificate numbersfield 1211. In addition, a picture of the item can be displayed onauction item page 1202.

Description 1204 comprises text describing the item to be auctioned.This text is read from the auction database, and can include detailsregarding features, specifications, model numbers, warranty information,etc. about the selected item.

End time field 1206 displays the date and time that the auction willclose for the selected item.

Bid start amount field 1210 displays the initial bid amount that wasestablished when the item first came up for auction (i.e. the auctionstart time). This amount is read from the auction database, andconverted to a value based on the program that the participant isparticipating in.

Bid increment 1216 displays the minimum amount that any new bid must addto the current high bid 1214.

Bid amount field 1212 is an input field providing a means for aparticipant to submit a bid for the item. In one embodiment of theinvention, the bid amount field 1212 is a drop down box containing fivepotential bid amounts to be selected by the participant. The bid amountsdisplayed are calculated using the minimum bid increment field 1216 forthe item as stored in the auction database. The minimum bid incrementfield is converted so that the bid amounts are in terms of the mediatype and denomination for the program that the participant isparticipating in. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that otherinput mechanisms besides a drop down box could be used to input bidamounts, and are within the scope of the invention. For example, a textfield could be used in which the participant enters a new bid amount.

Quantity available 1208 indicates the quantity of the item available forsale via the auction.

Desired quantity 1209 is an input field indicating the quantity of theitem that the user desires to obtain via the auction. The desiredquantity 1209 can be any number up to the quantity available 1208.

Certificate numbers field 1211 is an input field in which a userprovides a list of certificate numbers of certificates representingreward media that the user will redeem in exchange for the auction itemshould the user's bid be the winning bid when the auction closes.

After entering a bid amount, the user can cause the bid to be submittedto the auction server by clicking on a “submit” button 1224. Otherbuttons can exist on the screen 1202. For example a “previous” button1220 causes cancellation of the current bid and the previous screen tobe presented to the user. Refresh button 1226 causes the screen to berefreshed to reflect any potential updates to the current high bid 1214to be displayed to the user. Item bid history 1222 causes a bid historyto be displayed for a particular auction.

An exemplary bid confirmation screen 1230 is illustrated in FIG. 12B.Bid confirmation screen 1230 is presented in response to pressing thesubmit button 1224 on screen 1202. As shown, screen 1230 includes bidamount 1232, media account number 1234, and shipping address 1236. Bidamount 1232 is the amount submitted in bid amount field 1212 (FIG. 12A).Media account number 1234 is the reward media account number to be usedto satisfy the bid amount. The account number can be an identifier foran electronic bank account of accumulated reward media units, or it canbe a certificate number for a paper certificate that represents rewardmedia units. Shipping address 1236 is an address that the auction itemshould be shipped to should the participant submit the winning bid. Theaddress details can be defaulted to those provided during userregistration, or the user can override the default by entering newinformation in fields 1236. The bid can be confirmed via button 1238, orcancelled via button 1240.

An item bid history screen 1250 is illustrated in FIG. 12C. Item bidhistory screen 1250 is displayed in response to pressing the item bidhistory button 1222. In one embodiment of the invention, item bidhistory screen includes a list of all users that submitted a bid for theitem. Each item in the list includes a user name 1254, a quantity field1256, and a bid amount 1258. User name 1254 is the user identifier forthe participant that has submitted a bid for the item. Quantity field1256 is the quantity desired by the bidder. Bid amount 1258 is theamount bid by the participant.

A bid confirmation tab 1262 is illustrated in FIG. 12D. Bid confirmationscreen includes bid confirmation tab 1262. This screen is displayed inresponse to confirming a bid on screen 1230 via button 1238 (FIG. 12B).

FIG. 13A illustrates an exemplary “outbid” notification for Englishauctions, according to an embodiment of the invention. In thisembodiment, a participant is sent an e-mail 1301 if they have submitteda bid for an item, and another participant subsequently submits a higherbid. The e-mail is sent to the e-mail address provided during theregistration process. The information contained in the e-mail includesan auction number identifying the auction, the item name, and thecurrent high bid amount. The current high bid amount is expressed interms of the media and denomination associated with the program that theparticipant is participating in. In some embodiments of the invention,there is a hyperlink within the e-mail notification that provides a linkto the specific auction for which the participant was outbidded.

FIG. 13B illustrates an exemplary winner notification according to anembodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the participant is sentan electronic mail (e-mail) message 1302 containing data regarding thewinning bid. The e-mail is sent to the e-mail address provided duringthe registration process. The information contained in the e-mailincludes an auction number identifying the auction, the item name, andstates the funds have been deducted.

FIG. 13C is an exemplary notification that is sent if the participant isa winner of an auction, but cannot be deemed the winner for a lack ofsufficient funds, or other qualifying reason, the recipient will receivea rejection e-mail notification 1303. This rejection e-mail contains thereason the participant's winning bid could not be accepted.

CONCLUSION

A computerized incentive system with an Internet auction component hasbeen described. The embodiments of the invention provide advantages overprevious systems.

The system provides an auction environment in which incentive rewardpoints can be used to bid on items. The use of incentive award points isadvantageous, because a participant is more likely to bid when they knowthat they will not have to part with real money. In addition,participants are more likely to bid, because the odds of submitting awinning bid are increased relative to previous Internet based auctions.This is because the domain of possible participants is limited to thosethat have been invited to participate by a sponsor. Finally, the systemprovides the advantage that participants in multiple programs, or usersin multiple countries, can bid on items. The amounts displayed and bidare always in terms of the media and denominations that are relevant tothe participants particular program or country.

Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and describedherein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the artthat any arrangement which is calculated to achieve the same purpose maybe substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This application isintended to cover any adaptations or variations of the presentinvention.

For example, the systems and methods described above have used incentivereward points or media as medium of exchange, however the invention isnot so limited. For example, the systems and methods of the inventioncan apply equally well to an auction system in which each participantsees the current bid amounts in a local currency. The auction systemautomatically converts the local currency to a uniform “auction”currency in the same manner as described above with respect to theconversion of reward points or media.

The terminology used in this application is meant to include all ofthese environments. It is to be understood that the above description isintended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Many other embodimentswill be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the abovedescription. Therefore, it is manifestly intended that this invention belimited only by the following claims and equivalents thereof.

1. A method of conducting a network-based auction between at least twopotential purchasers bidding upon the same auctioned item utilizingdifferent purchasing media types, the method comprising: (a) displayingto the at least two potential purchasers the auction item that they eachhave decided to bid upon, wherein each potential purchaser can bid onthe auction item using at least one of the purchasing media typesaccepted by the network-based auction, wherein at least two of thepotential purchasers have selected different purchasing media types; (b)displaying a current bid price for the auction item to the potentialpurchaser making the current bid in terms of the at least one purchasingmedia type utilized by that potential purchaser; (c) converting thecurrent bid price and displaying it to at least one of the otherpotential purchasers in terms of the at least one purchasing media typeutilized by that other potential purchaser; and (d) permitting apotential purchaser other than the current potential purchaser to placean increased bid upon the auction item in terms of the at least onepurchasing media type utilized by that potential purchaser.
 2. Themethod of claim 1 further comprising automatically converting thedifferent purchasing media types that are bid by the potentialpurchasers to determine a highest bidder.
 3. The method of claim 1,wherein the network-based auction is associated with an incentiverewards system.
 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising selectionby the potential purchaser of the at least one purchasing media type tobe used for bidding on the auction item, wherein the displayed currentbid price is converted to the at least one purchasing media typeselected by the potential purchaser.
 5. The method of claim 4, whereinthe potential purchaser selects the at least one purchasing media typefrom a menu provided by the network-base auction.
 6. The method of claim4, wherein a program code is provided to the potential purchaser topermit correlation between the potential purchaser and at least onepurchasing media type.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the two or morepurchasing media types are selected from the group consisting ofincentive rewards points, certificates, frequent flyer miles, mileagemoney, frequent user points, frequent buyer awards points, credit, andcurrency.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the different purchasingmedia types are issued to the potential purchaser by different incentivesystem sponsors.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the differentpurchasing media types are issued to the potential purchaser by the sameincentive system sponsor.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein convertingthe displayed current bid price comprises converting between differentincentive rewards media.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein convertingthe displayed current bid price comprises converting between incentiverewards media having generally different values.
 12. The method of claim1, wherein converting the displayed current bid price comprisesconverting between currencies of different countries.
 13. The method ofclaim 1, wherein converting the displayed current bid price comprisesconverting between a non-monetary incentive reward media and a currency.14. The method of claim 1 further comprising permitting a purchase ofthe auction item with more than one of the different purchasing mediatypes.
 15. The method of claim 1 further comprising permitting apurchase of the auction item with a combination of different purchasingmedia types and currency.
 16. The method of claim 1 further comprisingcontrolling a time when at least one potential purchaser can view the atleast one auction item for purchase.
 17. The method of claim 16 furthercomprising means for permitting a sponsor to control access by at leastone potential purchaser to the network-based auction, or the auctionitems that can be displayed to or bid upon by at least one potentialpurchaser.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the control meanscomprises a valid user name or password for the potential purchaser. 19.The method of claim 17, wherein the control means comprises a validprogram code.
 20. The method of claim 1 further including displayingadvertising information informing a purchaser how to earn an additionalquantity of at least one of the different purchasing media types. 21.The method of claim 20, wherein the advertising information is displayedwhen a potential purchaser logs into the auction.
 22. The method ofclaim 1 further comprising providing a user with a purchasing media typecertificate having a unique certificate number, wherein the potentialpurchaser inputs the unique certificate number to purchase the auctionitem.
 23. The method of claim 1 further comprising accumulation by thepotential purchaser of the different media types in at least one accountprior to purchasing the auction item and transferring at least a portionof the different media types accumulated from the at least one accountfor redemption of the auction item.
 24. The method of claim 23 furthercomprising at least one sponsor being associated with each of thedifferent media types, wherein the auction system coordinates theaccumulation of the at least one different media types into at least oneaccount of the at least one potential purchasers.
 25. The method ofclaim 1 further comprising confirmation during the auction biddingprocess that the potential purchaser has available the quantity ofpurchasing media type bid for the auction item.
 26. The method of claim1 further comprising displaying an amount of time remaining for biddingupon the auction item.
 27. The method of claim 1 further comprising amessage sent to the potential purchaser notifying him that anotherpotential purchaser has placed a higher value bid for the auction item.28. A network-based auction system comprising: (a) a database of itemsfor purchase; (b) at least one auction server in communication with thedatabase to display at least one of the items for purchase, wherein theauction server adjusts the purchasing media types to be displayed to atleast one potential purchaser; (c) at least one potential purchasernetwork device to facilitate communication with at least the auctionserver, wherein the auction server displays the at least one item to theat least one potential purchaser; and (d) at least one purchasing mediatype utilized by the at least one potential purchaser for bidding on theat least one item displayed on the auction server.
 29. The system ofclaim 28, wherein the auction server automatically converts the mediatypes to determine a highest bidder.
 30. The system of claim 28 furthercomprising at least one incentive program in communication with the atleast one auction server for accumulating at least one of the mediatypes used to purchase the at least one item.
 31. The system of claim28, wherein the auction server converts between different incentivereward media.
 32. The system of claim 28, wherein the auction serverconverts between different currencies.
 33. The system of claim 28,wherein the auction server converts between a non-monetary incentivereward media and at least one type of currency.
 34. The system of claim28 further comprising a sponsor being associated with at least one ofthe purchasing media types, wherein the sponsor is able to control atime when the at least one potential purchaser can view the at least oneitem.
 35. The system of claim 28 further comprising an advertisinginformation display to inform the at least one purchaser how to earn anadditional quantity of at least one of the purchasing media types,wherein the advertising information display is received by the at leastone potential purchaser network device.
 36. The system of claim 35,wherein the at least one potential purchaser is informed to purchase anitem to earn an additional quantity of at least one of the purchasingmedia types.
 37. The system of claim 35, wherein the at least onepurchaser is informed to perform some behavior to earn an additionalquantity of at least one of the purchasing media types.
 38. The systemof claim 35, wherein the advertising information is displayed when atleast one potential purchaser logs into the auction server.
 39. Thesystem of claim 28 further comprising a certificate for a purchasingmedia type having a unique certificate number, wherein the at least onepotential purchaser inputs the unique certificate number into thenetwork device to purchase the at least one auction item.
 40. The systemof claim 28 further comprising a time display viewable on the networkdevice to display an amount of time remaining in the auction.
 41. Thesystem of claim 28, wherein the auction server converts the purchasingmedia types into a uniform media type to be used for purchasing the atleast one auction item.
 42. The system of claim 28 further comprising amessage sent to the potential purchaser notifying him that anotherpotential purchaser has placed a higher value bid for the auction item.43. A method of conducting a network-based auction, the methodcomprising: (a) storing at least one auction item for purchase in adatabase; (b) hosting at least one auction on a server that is incommunication with the database; (c) receiving a display of the auctionand the at least one auction item by a network device viewable by atleast one potential purchaser; (d) utilizing different purchasing mediatypes by the potential purchaser for the purchase of the at least oneauction item on the network device; (e) displaying a price of the atleast one item to the potential purchasers, wherein the price isassociated with at least one of the different purchasing media types;(f) converting the displayed price to at least one of the differentpurchasing media types; and (g) permitting the at least one potentialpurchaser to bid on the at least one item with at least one of thedifferent purchasing media types.
 44. The method of claim 43 furthercomprising automatically converting between the different purchasingmedia types to determine a highest bidder.